With nothing to separate both teams, the fair play rule was used, which ultimately went in favour of Japan who had amassed just four yellow cards.

Had Senegal been more disciplined, it could have been an entirely different story and would probably have picked their ticket to the knockout stages.

2. Mane’s poor form

Senegal is not a one-man team, but there also no denying of the fact that the team depends very much on Saido Mane.

During the qualifying series, the Liverpool attacker was instrumental throughout as Aliou Cisse’s side sealed a place in Russia. However, he was a pale shadow of himself in all three games that Senegal played at the World Cup.

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Despite scoring a goal against Japan in the second group game – one which came under fortuitous circumstances – Mane was poor and could not rise to the occasion when needed. His poor form meant that Senegal lacked inspiration upfront and were subsequently made to pay for it.

3. Failing to beat Japan

Senegal’s exit may have been confirmed after they lost to Columbia, but the fact is that the failed to take control of their fate after that game against Japan.

In what was a must-win encounter, the Lions of Teranga allowed the Asians back in the game after twice taking the lead.

The 2-2 draw with Japan ultimately proved to be Senegal’s undoing in Russia. Had they beaten the Blue Samurai, there would have been no need to ignite the fair play rules, let alone they exiting the tournament.

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Senegalese fans at the mundial. Source: Fifa.com

4. Lack of concentration

Senegal’s win over Poland in their first game clouded many problems that faced the team. Aliou Cisse’s side played with great energy but their concentration was always suspect.

The bane of all the African teams who played at this year’s World Cup was a lack of concentration and Senegal were no different.

In all their three games – against Poland, Japan and Columbia – they conceded late goals.

Against Japan, Senegal were lethargic after going 2-1 up, allowing Keisuke Honda to stab home the equalizer with a few minutes to end the game.

The story was very much the same when they placed in that group decider against Columbia. At this level, you need to concentrate for 90 minutes. Anything less and you are punished.